Blue Carbon Ecosystems in Nationally Determined Contributions and national greenhouse gas reporting

Abstract

This paper examines the integration of "Blue Carbon Ecosystems" (BCEs) such as mangroves and salt marshes into Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and National Inventory Reports (NIRs). While developing countries are increasingly including BCEs in their NDCs, reporting in NIRs remains insufficient. Only seven countries account for BCE, with mangroves being the most commonly included. Reporting among EU member states is even more scarce – with only France and Malta reporting on BCEs. The paper, aimed at policymakers and climate experts, emphasizes the need for increased knowledge transfer and further scientific research to improve BCE reporting.